The performance is declared open.

   (BEIJING, July 13) -- The Wangfujing Street in downtown Beijing witnessed a rarely-seen musical performance on Thursday, five years after the Chinese capital won the bid to host the 2008 Olympic Games.

   Twenty-three bands from 13 countries and regions took part in the cultural activity to pay tribute to the Olympic spirit and express longing for the 29th Olympic Games.

   Heralded by China PLA Navy Band's "Fleet March of the Volunteers," the instrument parade was joined by jazz of US California Music Ambassadors, "When You Believe" of Bahamas Students' Chorale, "Last Day of Carnival" of Russian youth ensemble Gorenka and many others of bands from Australia, Britain, Canada, Holland, New Zealand and so on.

   The performance culminated with "The Olympics: A Centennial Celebration" played by the 303-strong united band. The music, a combination and re-arrangement of four Olympic themes created by renowned American composer John Williams, brought back the Olympic journey and colorful moments of competitions.

   Organized by Beijing Municipal Bureau of Tourism, the Dongcheng district government and Beijing Band Directors' Association, the event is part of the fourth "Beijing 2008" Olympic Cultural Festival which will end on Saturday.

Wangfujing Street decorated with Olympic mascots

The united band plays Olympic themes.

Watchers catch the unforgettable moments.